Welcome!

Over the past year or so I have been regularly using a gym & swimming pool.   Something that at my age I had not expected to do. My son and daughter have frequently told me I ought to join a gym – but all those funny machines confused me, and I was not convinced it was for me at all – I thought only young people went to gyms!

My experience, though, has been very different – and in some ways I think churches can be a bit like gyms – and maybe there are things we can learn from each other.

Why do people go to a gym?   A whole variety of reasons:   They want to get physically fit (the usual reason, but may be subsidiary). They have a physical problem they need sorting out (bad back, etc). They are looking for company in their own age group. They like the variety of food on sale there1

 

Why do people go to Church? Again, a whole variety of reasons: They want to worship God, and improve their Spirituality (main reason – but could be subsidiary!). Life has gone wrong – and they are looking for help. They are looking for company in their own age group. The cafe and hospitality of the Church attracts them.

Do you see the similarities?

 

Gyms tell you things won’t work unless you go regularly – same is true of church.

 

So, what made me join a gym? First I was invited just to come an try it out – no strings attached. That was attractive. Second, the staff were very welcoming and non-threatening. Third, I was taken around by an individual and had everything explained to me – like the machinery, how classes ran etc. Fourth, I was told who was available to help me sort problems out- like the physio or personal trainer and therefore felt my own personal circumstances could be addressed.   On repeat visits I was always welcomed, and the staff remained friendly – so much so that I would recommend my gym to anyone interested. My age did not count against me – in fact I was probably helped more because of it!

The message in this? Well, I think the staff (and it is just staff at the gym) know they have a really good product, and want as many people as possible to belong and appreciate what they have there – and ok it keeps their jobs! On the other hand those of us that belong to a church know just how vital it is that people discover the key to Eternal Life – Jesus, and to remain in fellowship with others who know it too. Surely, what we have to offer is so ‘special’ that whether we are staff or members we can really welcome people, treat them as individuals – guide them through our ‘strange’ services, offer them Spiritual help and training on an individual basis – and keep on being friendly, regardless of what agegroup visitors are in or what race they might be.

The challenge is – where do people go most – the gym or the Church? And if so why?